Photovoltaic system with storage: what it is and how it works

When we talk about photovoltaic system, one immediately thinks of the classic solar panels installed on the roofs of houses. In these systems, the energy produced is consumed directly or fed into the national electricity grid, in exchange for compensation. But there is an interesting alternative: the photovoltaic with storage, an increasingly common solution among those who want to maximize self-consumption and reduce dependence on the network.

What is a photovoltaic system with storage

Un photovoltaic system with storage is composed of all the traditional elements (photovoltaic modules, inverters, connectors), but it also includes one or more battery systems able to store energy produced but not consumed immediately.

These batteries are not similar to common batteries, such as those in remote controls, but they are large capacity accumulators, designed to store large amounts of electricity. Thanks to this system, it is possible to use the solar energy produced during the day even in the evening or during cloudy days.

The two main types of storage systems

Photovoltaic storage systems are mainly divided into two categories:

1. Batteries integrated in the inverter

In this configuration, the inverter and the battery are contained in a single compact device, usually lithium.
✅ Advantages: small footprint, easy installation.
⚠️ Limits: limited storage capacity, therefore suitable for small plants or reduced needs.

2. External batteries

Here the batteries are connected externally to the system and can be chosen according to your needs in terms of power and capacity.

✅ Advantages: maximum flexibility, greater storage capacity.
⚠️ Limits: requires adequate space, higher installation and maintenance costs.

How does a photovoltaic system with storage work

The operation is dynamic and is based onstorage of excess energy.

During the day:

• The energy produced is first used to meet domestic consumption.
• THEunused energy cometh stored in batteries.

During the night or during times of low solar radiation:

• The batteries transfer the accumulated energy to the domestic system.
• If the batteries are empty, the system returns to drawing energy from the grid.

When the batteries are fully charged, The excess energy is still fed into the grid, avoiding waste and generating a possible economic return.

Is it really worth installing a photovoltaic system with storage?

The answer depends on several factors:

✅ Advantages:

• Maximize self-consumption.
• It reduces the withdrawal from the network, especially during the night hours.
• Potential savings in the bill in the long term.

⚠️ Disadvantages:

• High initial costs, due to specific inverters and batteries.
• Le Batteries lose efficiency over time, requiring future replacements.
• Adequate, dry, ventilated space is required for installation.

If you consume a lot of energy in the house in the evening or at night, a storage system may be a good choice. But for those with more balanced consumption or a limited budget, it may not be the most convenient solution.

A valid alternative: GridShare's shared photovoltaic

For those who cannot afford their own system (with or without storage), but still want access the advantages of solar energy, there is an innovative option: the shared photovoltaic of GridShare.

How GridShare works

GridShare realizes high yield solar parks in different areas of Italy. The first was completed in Ceprano, while others are in an advanced design phase.

Anyone can:

• Buy one or more shares of the solar park through crowdfunding.
• Financing the project and contribute to the energy transition.
• Receive a share of the revenue generated from the sale of the energy produced.

Advantages:

• No housework, no maintenance fees.
• Possibility to Lower (or eliminate) the electricity bill.
• Access toGreen energy even with no available roof or high budget.

In summary

A photovoltaic system with storage allows you to maximize self-consumption, reducing the withdrawal of energy from the electricity grid, especially in the evening and night hours. This translates into savings on the bill in the medium to long term. However, the initial costs are higher than a traditional system, due to the need for specific inverters and batteries, which over time lose efficiency and must be replaced. In addition, adequate space is needed to install the storage tank, preferably dry and ventilated. Ultimately, this solution is particularly convenient for those who consume significant amounts during hours not covered by the sun and can afford the initial investment.

Whether you are considering a domestic system with storage, or if you simply want to contribute to the production of clean energy, GridShare offers you a simple and sustainable way to access the benefits of photovoltaic energy.